What should you do if an OSHA inspector shows up at your company or on billboard site? Insider asked Formetco’s director of safety Jim Poague to respond.

• Be polite.  You won’t win by being rude or aggressive.
• Ask for proof of who they are.  A business card or badge is fine.
• Ask “how can I help you?”  You want to learn why they are there, what they want to do, and what they expect to see?
• When you’re asked a question, repeat it to make sure you understand what you’ve been asked.  This will also give you time to think.  Restrict you answer just to the question and to nothing else.  Don’t over answer.  Don’t run on.
• Provide everything the inspector requests to seek.  If the inspector ask to take something with them or for a copy of a document, ask for a written request.  This will allow you to keep track of what you have supplied them and the ability to create a file of your own.  Only supply what you’re asked for.
• Take a picture of anything the inspector takes a picture of.  If they want to do environmental sampling arrange to have your own testing performed as well.
• Allow private employee interviews but make sure your employees know its up to them as to whether they want to talk to the inspector.  Do not prevent employees from talking to the inspector if they wish to.  OSHA can’t force an employee to talk without a supoena.
• When its time for the closing conference, listen closely to any allegations or potential citations, but do not admit guilt.  Say thank you and I’ll review the information.
• Decide what action to take.  An attorney may be necessary, or it may be best to negotiate citations through an informal conference with the local OSHA Area Director.

For more info on dealing with OSHA contract Jim Poage at Formetco (678-951-1132) or jimpoage@formetco.com

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